City nominated for top award

Manchester City are among five Premier League clubs being considered for the prestigious Premier League Groundsman of the Year Award.

The shortlist, which includes Southampton and Arsenal, was drawn up by the Sports Turf Research Institute after consideration of referee’s match reports as well as marks awarded by match delegates after each game.

Etihad Stadium Head Groundsman Lee Jackson said: “This is a result of not just the day to day work that goes on at the stadium, but also the invaluable contribution that the ground staff based at both Platt Lane and Carrington give on match days.”

“We are delighted that the club has been nominated three times in the past four years as well as receiving the award in 2003 while at Maine Road and at the Etihad Stadium in 2011.”

Judging is due to take place on Wednesday 17 April at 10am with the winning club provisionally due to be announced at a Playing Surfaces Committee Seminar for football club groundstaff at St. Georges Park in late April or early May.